RV FEATURE
Having caravanned around Australia for more than seven years, we have seen electrical setups becoming bigger and better at a phenomenal rate. From entirely electric caravans that eliminate the need for gas appliances, to systems utilising 24 and 48V.
All of these systems are great; however, they do come at a great cost. Systems can cost from an extra $ 5000 to $ 10,000 and beyond, depending on what you want.
With all the talk across the industry of bigger and better electrical systems, one might get the impression that they are essential for staying off-grid. However, I’ m here to show you that it is not an essential, but rather a luxury.
HOW WE DO IT
We have completed two laps around Australia in two different setups. In both of them, we had a minimal electrical system. In our first van, we had just one 120Ah AGM battery with no fixed solar panel on the roof. Our latest setup is a bit more substantial, with 240A of lithium batteries and a single 200W solar panel.
With both setups, I carry a portable solar panel. This works brilliantly to help top up the batteries. Being portable, I can physically move it around throughout the day to catch the best sunlight. I can also use it to recharge the battery in our tow rig, which has a simple auxiliary battery setup of its own.
The Adventuring Pals have done two laps of Australia, each time with a minimal 12V system.
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